Rabbi Ratzon Arusi who was a candidate for the chief Sephardi rabbi announced that he was retiring from the race after he had examined his chances via the Electoral Assembly of the Chief Rabbinate.

"I will continue to work for Judaism and the rabbinate wherever I can. The role is not what is important, rather it is the goal," said Arusi who withdrew one hour before the start of voting. It is expected that Arusi's supporters will vote for Rabbi Zion Boaron. (Kobi Nachshoni)